Registrar asking for extra money to transfer ownership

Answer

A:

If a registrar or sub-registrar is asking for extra money to transfer ownership of property, it amounts to illegal demand or bribery, as the registration process is governed strictly by the Registration Act, 1908 and state stamp duty laws. The only payments you are legally required to make are stamp duty, registration fees, and other statutory charges prescribed by the government. No officer can demand money beyond this.

In such a case, you should:

1. Insist on an official receipt for every payment made.

2. Refuse to pay any extra unofficial money, as it has no legal basis.

3. File a written complaint with the District Registrar or Inspector General of Registration.

4. Report the matter to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) or Vigilance Department, which regularly takes action against corrupt registration officials.

5. If your property transfer is being delayed unlawfully, you can also file a writ petition in the High Court to direct the registrar to complete the transfer.

You are only liable to pay stamp duty and government fees for transfer of ownership. Any extra demand by a registrar is illegal, and you can refuse to pay and report the matter to the higher registration authorities or the Anti-Corruption Bureau.